Here are the essential behaviors providers need to practice to respect their patients’ privacy and confidentiality. Privacy •Use a hushed voice when speaking with patients and families or when sharing information in public areas. •When possible, find a private area for talking with patients and families. •Consider patients’ needs for physical privacy. Before touching a patient or conducting a physical exam, tell the patient and family what you are going to do and ask the patient’s permission. •Use the environment to your advantage to convey privacy. Examples: •Knock on the patient’s door before entering. •If the patient is behind a curtain in an exam area, ask the patient if it is okay to move the curtain. •Close doors during an exam or family meeting. •Use a sheet or gown to keep the patient’s body covered before and after a physical exam. Confidentiality •Never discuss patient information in public areas – elevators, hallways, cafeterias, parking areas, or on the phone in a patient registration area. •Only discuss patient information in appropriate staff areas, and only with staff members who need the information to provide care. •Ask patients for permission to discuss their care with family members present. Some patients may prefer to speak with you one-on-one about sensitive matters. •Make sure systems and staff keep patient information confidential. Angle computer screens away from public areas and store patient printouts, lab results, insurance information, and other private paperwork out of public view.
Posted on: Fri, 15 Nov 2013 14:35:24 +0000